Elbow Dysplasia & F.C.P.

By: Brisbane Veterinary Specialist Centre

Elbow Dysplasia & F.C.P.

 

Bruce Smith BVSc, MS, FACVSc, Dip ACVS
Lyn Minhinnett BVSc MACVSc

What is Elbow Dysplasia and Coronoid Process Disease?

Elbow Dysplasia affects the formation of cartilage and bone within the elbow joint. The most common form of Elbow Dysplasia is fragmentation of the coronoid process (FCP). In FCP, excessive loading and injury of the joint surface on the inside of the elbow occurs. Injury involves abrasion of the normal joint cartilage and/or bone fragmentation. The result is joint pain and progressive degenerative arthritis.

FCP is a developmental disease. It is most frequently seen in large breeds of dogs (especially Labrador Retrievers and Rottweilers), but may also occur in smaller breeds. Signs of pain and lameness usually occur during the rapid growth phase from about five to twelve months of age. Injury to the joint cartilage caused by FCP is irreparable, therefore any resulting arthritis may continue throughout life.

 

How is a Diagnosis of Elbow Dysplasia and FCP Made?

Your veterinarian can screen for FCP by physical examination and radiographs. Confirmation of the diagnosis and identification of coronoid process injury, however, requires CT imaging or examination of the joint at surgery.

 

Is my Dog a Candidate for FCP Surgery?

Many dogs may experience mild and short term signs of elbow pain that may not require detailed evaluation or surgery. Where signs are more severe or persistent, especially in at risk breeds, your veterinarian may recommend referral for specific assessment and surgery.

While lameness may be more pronounced for one front leg, FCP is very commonly present in both elbows. For this reason CT examination of both elbows is recommended. If coronoid disease is confirmed the requirement for surgical treatment will be discussed with you.

 

What is the surgical treatment for FCP?

The fragmented piece of coronoid bone and any damaged cartilage are removed. This is performed through a key-hole surgery on the inside of the elbow. As this is a joint surgery, it is performed in an operating room with full attention to sterility, as for all orthopaedic procedures performed at BVSC.

 

How long will my Dog be in hospital?

An overnight hospital stay following surgery is usual. Your dog will be admitted the morning of surgery for preoperative checks, planning and pre-emptive pain control. Continuous observation and pain control is continued postoperatively until your dog is comfortably up and about.

 

What after-care will my Dog need?

Rechecks are required two weeks postoperatively for suture removal and again at six weeks postoperatively, before returning to unrestricted activity. Anti-inflammatory pain medication is required once or twice daily until suture removal.

Activity restriction is essential for your dog’s comfort and healing, however early controlled activity and physiotherapy are beneficial. Typically this means room confinement when not attended and gradually increasing leashed walks over a six week period. Rehabilitation with an animal physiotherapist is recommended and can be arranged for you. To learn more abut Physiotherapy you can visit our physiotherapist’s website www.holisticanimalphysiotherapy.com.au

 

Will my Dog return to Normal Activity?

While a return normal activity cannot be guaranteed, most dogs experience a significant improvement in comfort and function. Unrestricted activity can usually resume at six weeks

Are their any Complications with F.C.P Surgery?

Wound bleeding, swelling and infection may occur as with any orthopaedic procedure but are uncommon and temporary.

Financing surgical treatment for your pet.

BVSC understands that surgical treatments are both unexpected and costly. To assist you, access to third party external finance companies is available. These companies require a detailed application and credit check. BVSC is not an agent for these companies and may request a deposit to allow treatment to proceed if finance approval is pending.

 

Where is BVSC and how do I make an appointment for my pet?

BVSC is located on Brisbane’s north side on the corner of Old Northern & Keong Roads, Albany Creek 4035.

 

To make an appointment for your pet you will be required to have a referral from your vet, to get a referral contact your veterinarian and request referral to BVSC then contact our friendly reception staff on (07) 3264 9400